B12 on a Plant-Based Plate: Milks & Meals

 

Vitamin B12 is one of those invisible nutrients that quietly powers your body every single day. It supports red blood cell formation, nerve health, and energy levels. Yet, despite its importance, many people—plant-based or not—fall short. B12 is produced by soil bacteria, not animals, but over time, industrial food systems and sanitization have stripped away our natural exposure to it.

As physician & nutritionist Dr. Michael Greger once said, “It’s not a vegan problem—it’s a modern problem.”

 

The Common Misconception

One of the biggest myths is that plant-based eaters can’t get enough B12. The truth is, most animal foods contain B12 because animals are either supplemented or exposed to fortified feed. Today, both omnivores and vegans rely on external sources—through food fortification or supplements—to meet their B12 needs.

 

Causes of B12 Deficiency in Modern Diets

Factors like gut absorption issues, medication use, and aging can affect how well B12 is utilized in the body. Even dairy consumers may develop deficiency if their gut microbiome is imbalanced.

Dairy milk may carry cholesterol, hormones, and antibiotics—factors that can affect long-term heart and hormonal health. Plant-based milks, on the other hand, offer cleaner nutrition, no cholesterol, and a smaller environmental footprint.

 

 

Fortified Foods as a Convenient Source

Fortified foods have made meeting B12 needs simple and sustainable. Plant-based milks, nutritional yeast, and fortified breakfast cereals are excellent options. Choosing plant-based milk bases fortified with B12 ensures a daily source without relying on animal products.

Pairing B12-rich or fortified foods with vitamin C sources such as citrus, berries, or amla enhances absorption. A balanced gut microbiome also plays a role—meaning your overall diet quality affects how well your body uses B12.


The Role of Gut Health in B12

Your gut is where B12 absorption begins. Supporting gut bacteria with fiber-rich foods, fermented meals, and clean plant-based ingredients can significantly improve how efficiently your body utilizes nutrients.

A practical B12 coverage plan includes one glass of fortified vegan milk, a tablespoon of nutritional yeast, and a B12 supplement twice a week. This simple habit helps maintain energy, focus, and vitality.

 

Fortified Milks Minus the Health Issues

That’s where VeganDay steps in. Their innovative milk base variants—fortified with B12 and Vitamin D3 (20% RDA for each in every 200ml serve) —make it easy to create fresh, preservative-free plant-based milk at home. With options like almond, cashew, and mixed nut blends, VeganDay bridges the gap between taste, health, and sustainability—offering nutrition that truly nourishes from within.

 

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